Who can prescribe an emotional support animal? A doctor or psychologist may prescribe an emotional support animal, or ESA, for a patient with a mental or emotional health condition. A doctor or psychologist must write a letter stating that the animal will help the patient cope with their condition. The letter must also state that the animal is necessary to the patient’s treatment.
How to Find – Who Can Prescribe an Emotional Support Animal?
To obtain an ESA letter, a patient should visit their family physician or primary care physician. The family doctor may also recommend the use of a pet. Providing an emotional support animal may be especially helpful for patients who cannot disclose their needs to their doctors. However, it is important to note that no doctor can automatically prescribe an ESA letter, as a doctor needs to perform a thorough psychological background analysis.
Emotional support animals can be any kind of animal that provides comfort, companionship, or therapeutic value to its owner. Licensed therapists can determine if a particular animal is appropriate for a patient’s needs and can help ease their symptoms. They may specialize in issues such as depression or eating disorders.
The process to apply for an emotional support animal varies depending on the company or state. An application process may require an online or telemedicine appointment with a medical professional. Once approved, the patient may travel with their animal. The doctor or psychologist who approves the emotional support animal must determine the animal’s needs and the person’s need for it.